Damages incurred during N3 protests to cost over R2-Million

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. - A motorist winds around safety cones on DL Ingram Ave. on Nov. 3. Although Ingram has been opened for traffic, drivers should continue to exercise caution as the project is expected to be completed Nov. 10. (Air Force photo by Greg Allen)

The Road Freight Association says damages incurred from the violent protests at the N3 Mooi River Toll Plaza are estimated to be worth more than R200 million.

Road freight association manager Gavin Kelly spoke to POWER 98.7 and said repairing the damages caused by the violent demonstrations will be costly.

“We have not begun to estimate what it will cost the drivers in lost salaries and wages. We have not estimated the medical costs either. Preliminary investigations have indicated that damages may amount to a little over R250 million.”

Traffic officials said one lane on the N3 northbound from Durban near the Mooi River Toll Plaza has been re-opened to traffic.

This after at least 15 trucks were set alight on that road last night.

N3 toll concession spokesperson con roux spoke to power 98.7 and revealed that they understand the truck drivers were protesting against the hiring of foreign nationals.

Earlier this month a similar protest ensued wherein a grocery truck was burned. Protesters blockaded the N3 highway with burning tyres and rocks. A number of trucks were vandalised and looted by the protesting crowds

Roux said the N3 southbound still remained closed to traffic.

“We will be working through the night the highway is completely opened. We expect traffic to peek from tomorrow as holiday makers make their way back to Gauteng after the long weekend.”